Arm Lift (Brachioplasty)
The upper arms are one of the most visible areas of the body and one of the hardest to tone once the skin begins to loosen. Excess skin and tissue in the upper arms can leave many patients feeling self-conscious, especially in short sleeves or sleeveless clothing, whether due to age, genetics, or major weight loss.
At Avané Clinic, we offer arm lift surgery (also called brachioplasty) to help restore proportion and smoothness to the upper arms. Our surgeons take a meticulous, individualized approach to reduce sagging, remove excess fat and skin, and create a more sculpted arm shape that fits your natural frame. We invite you to schedule a consultation to discuss whether this procedure is the right step toward feeling more comfortable in your skin.
An arm lift, or brachioplasty, involves removing excess skin and fat from the upper arms to improve their appearance. During the procedure, incisions are made along the inside or back of the arms, sometimes extending from the underarm to the elbow. Excess skin and fat are removed, and the remaining skin is tightened and sutured in place. Liposuction may also be used to enhance the results. The incisions are placed strategically to minimise visible scarring, and the procedure is typically performed under general anaesthesia.
In some cases, liposuction is used during the procedure to remove excess fat and enhance the final contour. The primary goal of brachioplasty is to create arms that appear smoother, firmer, and more proportional to the rest of the body—all while maintaining natural movement and balance.
At Avané Clinic in Nairobi, the arm lift procedure begins with a consultation to discuss your goals and determine the best surgical approach. The surgery is performed under general anaesthesia and usually takes about 1 to 3 hours, depending on the extent of the lift. After the surgery, you will need to wear compression garments to support the new contours of your arms and reduce swelling. Mild discomfort, swelling, and bruising are common and will subside within a few weeks. Detailed aftercare instructions will be provided to ensure optimal healing and results. Most patients can return to work within 1 to 2 weeks, with full results visible after a few months.
An arm lift is primarily used to treat loose, hanging skin that cannot be corrected through exercise or weight loss alone. It’s particularly helpful for patients who have lost a significant amount of weight and are left with excess tissue. Aging also contributes to skin laxity in the arms, especially in individuals with thinner skin or less natural collagen.
In addition to sagging skin, brachioplasty can address fat deposits that give the arms a bulky or unbalanced appearance, especially near the armpit. It can also improve comfort by reducing chafing or skin irritation caused by overlapping tissue.
The most immediate benefit is a visible improvement in the shape and tone of your arms. Many patients feel more confident wearing short sleeves or sleeveless outfits after the procedure, without worrying about sagging or loose skin. But the benefits go beyond appearance.
Arm lift advantages include:
If your skin still has good elasticity and your main concern is fat, liposuction alone may be sufficient. However, if the skin is stretched and cannot retract, surgery is typically required for meaningful results. During your consultation, we’ll help you determine the best course of treatment.
Ideal candidates include:
After surgery, your arms will be wrapped in compression garments to support healing and reduce swelling. Most patients experience soreness, bruising, and limited mobility for the first 1–2 weeks. You’ll be advised to avoid lifting your arms above shoulder height and refrain from strenuous activity for at least 4 weeks.
Sutures are usually dissolvable, and follow-up visits will be scheduled to monitor healing. Scarring will fade over time and is typically placed in less visible areas. Final results become more apparent as swelling subsides—usually within 6 to 12 weeks.
An arm lift at Avané Clinic in Nairobi results in smoother, firmer, and more toned upper arms. Benefits include a more youthful appearance, reduction of sagging skin, and improved self-confidence. The procedure effectively removes excess skin and fat, enhancing the overall shape and proportion of the arms. The results are long-lasting, especially when maintained with a healthy lifestyle and regular exercise.
Your clothing may fit better, and many patients feel more confident showing their arms in everyday life. It’s a noticeable, empowering change that honors the work you’ve already done to care for your body.
At Avané Clinic, we take the time to understand your goals, evaluate your anatomy, and deliver results that feel like an enhancement—not a reinvention. Our board-certified surgeons focus on precision and balance, using refined techniques to reduce scarring and optimize results.
You’ll be supported throughout the process with honest guidance, thoughtful aftercare, and a team that respects your time, privacy, and individuality. We’re here to help you feel more at ease in your body, every step of the way.
Yes, there will be a scar, usually placed on the inner part of the upper arm where it is less visible. It fades over time and is often outweighed by the improvement in arm shape.
Most patients can return to work within 1–2 weeks, but full healing—including return to exercise—may take 4–6 weeks.
Mild to moderate discomfort is common after surgery, but it is usually well managed with prescribed medication and supportive garments.
Yes. Many patients combine brachioplasty with breast lifts, tummy tucks, or liposuction for a more complete body contouring approach.
Results can last for many years if you maintain a stable weight and healthy lifestyle. Skin naturally loses elasticity with age, but improvements remain noticeable.
That depends on your goals and anatomy. Liposuction can be used to remove excess fat if needed, but it may not be necessary for everyone.
You’ll need to avoid driving until you’re off prescription pain medications and have regained full arm mobility—usually within 1–2 weeks.
